Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Lessons from the squash vine borer


Our zucchini plants have been struck again by the squash vine borer this year despite the added protection of foil around the base and the use of row covers for a limited period of time.  The destructive nature of this attack is very easily missed and usually fatal to the entire plant.  The plant can look fine one day then totally collapse the next.  What can we learn from this?

When we examine ourselves, just looking in the mirror isn't always enough. We need to dig deeper, and examine our heart.  Perhaps like the fated zucchini in which there were 3 jumbo borer larva found inside upon closer inspection, we also may find things that are destructive to our soul.  Now I am not talking about using a knife and scalpel, but I am talking about examining your words and thoughts.  Scripture tells us that out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.  If our words and thoughts are pure and clean at all times, that is a good indication of our healthy inner state.  But what do we do if we don’t like what we find upon deeper examination?  Eradicate the junk!  How do we do that?  One way is following the advice of Philippians 4:8 

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

To help with this, I also suggest for you to take a look at your environment.  If it is negative, filthy, or harmful to your body or soul, change it if you can.  Surround yourself with good, beautiful things and people that love you and it will help you remain positive and able to keep the squash vine borers of life at bay.    
Squash Vine Borer

Squash Vine Borer (1 of 3 found in plant)

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